2 Samuel 11:4 "She came to him, and he slept with her."
Well, this is the story about David's tryst with Bathsheba, wife of Uriah the Hittite. David, with his six or seven wives, lets his eyes wander over to the aptly named Bathsheba soaping herself up next door. He is immediately smitten, and has his people hook him up. David plows with Uriah's heifer, and she gets pregnant. Then the drama begins. David was not concerned until now with who her husband might have been. Now he wants to know about this guy whose wife is bearing David's fruit. He calls him from battle under the guise of wondering how everything was going. I imagine David probably had numerous messengers going constantly to tell him how it was going.
Eventually, he had Joab, the military commander, put Uriah in the place where the fighting was the fiercest, essentially killing him. And I think this is where it's most intriguing. Joab probably had no clue why David had this sudden interest in a random guy like Uriah. But this command, coming from the guy who had called down a curse on Joab for his misguided attempts to curry favor, was not to be ignored. But in his time, I'm sure Joab had seen requests before to throw cats into the fire. I'm sure it was an oft-used punishment, because later on, Joab knew David would want to know that Uriah had fallen.
David is kind enough to allow Bathsheba to mourn for her husband before taking her as his wife. This is the second...no, third time David has taken a married woman as his wife (Abigail, Michal) that we know of. God was not too happy with this. Displeased in fact. David, having everything, was not satisfied with the women already in his life. His libido gets the best of him here. Lust seems to trump all other vices, at least with David. I wonder if he'd step over Mephibosheth...
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
2 Sa. 10: David Wins More Wars
2 Samuel 10:19 "When all the kings who were vassals of Hadadezer saw that they had been defeated by Israel, they made peace with the Israelites and became subject to them. So the Arameans were afraid to help the Ammonites anymore."
This is a chapter about more military victories for David against surrounding nations. Every time I read about a confrontation, I'm kind of waiting for some sort of screw up where the nation of Israel does something to screw up. But they must be in a groove right now. And I most wonder about their spiritual lives at this point, because whatever David does, God gives them the victory. Is God doing this for David, or the nation of Israel as a whole? I want to believe it's for David, because I can't imagine the nation of Israel having it all together for this long.
David's delegation of sympathy for a deceased Ammonite king Hanun's father is misread as spying, and David's people have their beards cut, and their clothes cut off in a revealing way. They almost immediately realize they've screwed up, so they do what they think is best, and assemble a huge Aramean army for what they assume will be massive blowback from David. And victory for David. David may not have had any intent to attack them until they assembled an army. This is interesting to me. They realized their mistake, and instead of admitting their error, they got all defensive and prepared for war. So David gave the Ammonites something to cry about, but kicking hiney. They tried to regroup, but David was right there, with his expert commanders, Joab and Abishai, and they tear it up.
They should have just apologized.
This is a chapter about more military victories for David against surrounding nations. Every time I read about a confrontation, I'm kind of waiting for some sort of screw up where the nation of Israel does something to screw up. But they must be in a groove right now. And I most wonder about their spiritual lives at this point, because whatever David does, God gives them the victory. Is God doing this for David, or the nation of Israel as a whole? I want to believe it's for David, because I can't imagine the nation of Israel having it all together for this long.
David's delegation of sympathy for a deceased Ammonite king Hanun's father is misread as spying, and David's people have their beards cut, and their clothes cut off in a revealing way. They almost immediately realize they've screwed up, so they do what they think is best, and assemble a huge Aramean army for what they assume will be massive blowback from David. And victory for David. David may not have had any intent to attack them until they assembled an army. This is interesting to me. They realized their mistake, and instead of admitting their error, they got all defensive and prepared for war. So David gave the Ammonites something to cry about, but kicking hiney. They tried to regroup, but David was right there, with his expert commanders, Joab and Abishai, and they tear it up.
They should have just apologized.
Monday, July 28, 2008
2 Sa. 9: Mephibosheth
2 Samuel 9:7 "Don't be afraid," David said to him, "for I will surely show you kindness for the sake of your father Jonathan. I will restore to you all the land that belonged to your grandfather Saul, and you will always eat at my table."
With David firmly ensconced as king, he could now take care of important things, like being kind to any remaining members of the house of Saul. There weren't many left, apparently, and the only one readily available was Mephibosheth, Jonathan's son. Mephibosheth, you may remember was crippled as a child as they fled their home in the panic following the murder of Ish-Bosheth in 2 Sa. 4.
David's devotion to this household is pretty amazing. Other than Saul's being God's anointed, David didn't really have any reason to for this. I don't believe his friendship with Jonathan was the reason for this devotion...perhaps a result of it. And Mephibosheth was Jonathan's son, and was probably in need of special provision. But he wasn't a complete invalid, as he had a son. David had them eat at his table. Which was nice. Mephibosheth was an eventual heir to the throne, but through no fault of his own, that wasn't going to happen. I wonder how he must have felt. First when Ish-Bosheth took the throne, and second, when David took the throne. He must have swallowed his pride eventually.
With David firmly ensconced as king, he could now take care of important things, like being kind to any remaining members of the house of Saul. There weren't many left, apparently, and the only one readily available was Mephibosheth, Jonathan's son. Mephibosheth, you may remember was crippled as a child as they fled their home in the panic following the murder of Ish-Bosheth in 2 Sa. 4.
David's devotion to this household is pretty amazing. Other than Saul's being God's anointed, David didn't really have any reason to for this. I don't believe his friendship with Jonathan was the reason for this devotion...perhaps a result of it. And Mephibosheth was Jonathan's son, and was probably in need of special provision. But he wasn't a complete invalid, as he had a son. David had them eat at his table. Which was nice. Mephibosheth was an eventual heir to the throne, but through no fault of his own, that wasn't going to happen. I wonder how he must have felt. First when Ish-Bosheth took the throne, and second, when David took the throne. He must have swallowed his pride eventually.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
2 Sa. 8: David at War
2 Samuel 8:15 "David reigned over all Israel, doing what was just and right for all his people."
David continues his terrible ruckus-raising throughout the middle east, conquering the Philistines, the Edomites and others. He must be doing something right, because the kingdom keeps expanding, and David continues to be granted victory. Couple interesting items...when beating down the Moabites, he had them lie down on the ground, head to foot, and killed 2 of every three. Which seems like a tedious, fearsome project. Weird, man. Why did he spare 1/3 of them? Out of kindness? Hardly. Slavery, possibly. To bring tribute...that's my guess.
Horses were hamstrung, chariots were taken, and plunder hauled.
Then we see David's cabinet. Which is interesting...secretarites, advisors...etc. Joab was still in charge of the military despite David's curses. Which, in a way, speaks to David's justice. The curse was punishment enough...he didn't need to lose his job. At least in my opinion.
David continues his terrible ruckus-raising throughout the middle east, conquering the Philistines, the Edomites and others. He must be doing something right, because the kingdom keeps expanding, and David continues to be granted victory. Couple interesting items...when beating down the Moabites, he had them lie down on the ground, head to foot, and killed 2 of every three. Which seems like a tedious, fearsome project. Weird, man. Why did he spare 1/3 of them? Out of kindness? Hardly. Slavery, possibly. To bring tribute...that's my guess.
Horses were hamstrung, chariots were taken, and plunder hauled.
Then we see David's cabinet. Which is interesting...secretarites, advisors...etc. Joab was still in charge of the military despite David's curses. Which, in a way, speaks to David's justice. The curse was punishment enough...he didn't need to lose his job. At least in my opinion.
2 Sa. 7: I Didn't Build It For Me
2 Samuel 7:14-15 "I will be his father, and he will be my son. When he does wrong, I will punish him with the rod of men, with floggings inflicted by men. But my love will never be taken away from him, as I took it away from Saul, whom I removed from before you."
David, dwelling as king in the splendor that God Himself said he would provide gets a sudden attack of conscience. His palace of stone and cedar stands in stark contrast to the humility of the tent (albeit studded with gold) that houses the ark of God, and God's stated dwelling place amonf the people of Israel. David has it in his mind to build a temple for God. Other gods had temples. Why not house the Name in something lavish? God has taken great measures to differentiate Himself from the other gods. David probably realized that, so, even though it may have seemed like the right thing to do even to the prophet Nathan. But God came to Nathan with a different idea. As God moved from place to place, Israel had to follow them. Now, with Israel in the land promised to them, God no longer had to move around.
Essentially David was not the right one to build the temple. David was humble enough to admit that he would agree with that, and accept the promise that it would be his son that would build the temple. David wanted to do a great thing for God, but still it was God who wanted to provide a great thing instead for David.
David, dwelling as king in the splendor that God Himself said he would provide gets a sudden attack of conscience. His palace of stone and cedar stands in stark contrast to the humility of the tent (albeit studded with gold) that houses the ark of God, and God's stated dwelling place amonf the people of Israel. David has it in his mind to build a temple for God. Other gods had temples. Why not house the Name in something lavish? God has taken great measures to differentiate Himself from the other gods. David probably realized that, so, even though it may have seemed like the right thing to do even to the prophet Nathan. But God came to Nathan with a different idea. As God moved from place to place, Israel had to follow them. Now, with Israel in the land promised to them, God no longer had to move around.
Essentially David was not the right one to build the temple. David was humble enough to admit that he would agree with that, and accept the promise that it would be his son that would build the temple. David wanted to do a great thing for God, but still it was God who wanted to provide a great thing instead for David.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
2 Sa. 6: David's Ark
2 Samuel 6:7 "The LORD's anger burned against Uzzah because of his irreverent act; therefore God struck him down and he died there beside the ark of God."
Well, it is time for David to bring the ark back home. He brings 30,000 of his men after it. I don't know if he was expecting a fight? I don't know. Maybe the Philistines still had the ark...
So they load the ark up on a cart being drawn by oxen, and its probably not the best way to carry it. It was not carried the way it was inherently designed to be carried. By Levite priests, with a pole through the rings. It was stable, and it was also what God commanded. But here they were, the ark rattling along on rudimentary roads. Of course it was bound to fall off. And Uzzah reaches out to keep it from smashing on the ground, and he is struck dead. It was a happy time, with much celebrating, but then God kills Uzzah.
I more or less accept this, as I have read God's justice since the beginning. He is completely holy. I guess this makes sense. It's still horrible, the loss of life. But Uzzah was unjustly put in this position, so David's anger is somewhat out of place. David eventually gets it right.
After a sacrifice, and a cooling off period, David is back in the mood to celebrate, and he dances and leaps with all of his might before the LORD. Which got me thinking. What would trigger me to do that today? What would compel me to become this undignified to dance all crazy-like for God. Michal saw it, and was not pleased. She thought it was ridiculous for the king to act like that, and tells David. David uncorks the burn of the century though... "It was before the LORD, who chose me rather than your father or anyone from his house when he appointed me ruler over the LORD's people Israel—I will celebrate before the LORD." Snap! Michal's attitude costs her the ability to bear children.
Well, it is time for David to bring the ark back home. He brings 30,000 of his men after it. I don't know if he was expecting a fight? I don't know. Maybe the Philistines still had the ark...
So they load the ark up on a cart being drawn by oxen, and its probably not the best way to carry it. It was not carried the way it was inherently designed to be carried. By Levite priests, with a pole through the rings. It was stable, and it was also what God commanded. But here they were, the ark rattling along on rudimentary roads. Of course it was bound to fall off. And Uzzah reaches out to keep it from smashing on the ground, and he is struck dead. It was a happy time, with much celebrating, but then God kills Uzzah.
I more or less accept this, as I have read God's justice since the beginning. He is completely holy. I guess this makes sense. It's still horrible, the loss of life. But Uzzah was unjustly put in this position, so David's anger is somewhat out of place. David eventually gets it right.
After a sacrifice, and a cooling off period, David is back in the mood to celebrate, and he dances and leaps with all of his might before the LORD. Which got me thinking. What would trigger me to do that today? What would compel me to become this undignified to dance all crazy-like for God. Michal saw it, and was not pleased. She thought it was ridiculous for the king to act like that, and tells David. David uncorks the burn of the century though... "It was before the LORD, who chose me rather than your father or anyone from his house when he appointed me ruler over the LORD's people Israel—I will celebrate before the LORD." Snap! Michal's attitude costs her the ability to bear children.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
2 Sa. 5: David is Kingier
2 Samuel 5:8 "On that day, David said, 'Anyone who conquers the Jebusites will have to use the water shaft to reach those 'lame and blind' who are David's enemies.' That is why they say, 'The 'blind and lame' will not enter the palace.'"
Well, David is king of Israel, as we all know. In 2 Samuel 5, Israel finally realizes it (after 7 and a half years), and they have a nice ceremony acknowledging it.
Then there's this interesting little story about how David conquers this little town called, Oh, I don't know...Jerusalem. So overconfident in their defenses and abilities were the occupying Jebusites, that they declared that even the lame and the blind could ward David off. David's like, "I'll show you blind," and promptly kicks their hineys, and moves into Zion (the City of David). David even has what I perceive to be a joke, about how the blind and the lame cannot enter the temple, in reference to the stipulation that foreigners cannot enter in.
Even a foreign king (Hiram of Tyre) hooks David up with some cedars to build David a house. David gets even more wives and concubines and kids. That's awful nice of him. I bet he didn't want to be conquered.
The chapter closes with yet another example of David inquiring of the LORD, purposely. The Philistines are not real happy with hearing that David, who lived among them was now Israel's king. David asks if he should attack the Philistines. God say, "Ah sure, what the hey." So David does, and the LORD "breaks out" like a dam bursting against the Philistines. They abandoned their gods. I love also how God instructs David to wait among the Balsam trees for God's marching in the leaves above as the signal.
Well, David is king of Israel, as we all know. In 2 Samuel 5, Israel finally realizes it (after 7 and a half years), and they have a nice ceremony acknowledging it.
Then there's this interesting little story about how David conquers this little town called, Oh, I don't know...Jerusalem. So overconfident in their defenses and abilities were the occupying Jebusites, that they declared that even the lame and the blind could ward David off. David's like, "I'll show you blind," and promptly kicks their hineys, and moves into Zion (the City of David). David even has what I perceive to be a joke, about how the blind and the lame cannot enter the temple, in reference to the stipulation that foreigners cannot enter in.
Even a foreign king (Hiram of Tyre) hooks David up with some cedars to build David a house. David gets even more wives and concubines and kids. That's awful nice of him. I bet he didn't want to be conquered.
The chapter closes with yet another example of David inquiring of the LORD, purposely. The Philistines are not real happy with hearing that David, who lived among them was now Israel's king. David asks if he should attack the Philistines. God say, "Ah sure, what the hey." So David does, and the LORD "breaks out" like a dam bursting against the Philistines. They abandoned their gods. I love also how God instructs David to wait among the Balsam trees for God's marching in the leaves above as the signal.
Monday, July 21, 2008
2 Sa. 4: Impetuousness of Youth
2 Samuel 4:11 "How much more—when wicked men have killed an innocent man in his own house and on his own bed—should I not now demand his blood from your hand and rid the earth of you!"
Well, the Bible apparently cannot go one chapter without someone getting slain. Ish-Bosheth has these two raiders, Baanah and Recab. They probably heard about the welcome Abner got from David after defecting to his side. They probably didn't hear about the Amalekite messenger in chapter one. Problem is, Abner didn't have to kill anyone for David to receive him into his good graces. The Amalekite claimed to have killed someone he didn't. David had him killed.
Well, David's upside-down system of justice continues. Because Baanah and Recab killed Ish-Bosheth while he slept in his own room, and David figured he was an innocent man, despite being his enemy, he had the dudes killed. Enemies can be innocent. Not a concept I often think about. It is interesting that those who think the things they do will win them favor, but in this case, it was just a change of heart.
Well, the Bible apparently cannot go one chapter without someone getting slain. Ish-Bosheth has these two raiders, Baanah and Recab. They probably heard about the welcome Abner got from David after defecting to his side. They probably didn't hear about the Amalekite messenger in chapter one. Problem is, Abner didn't have to kill anyone for David to receive him into his good graces. The Amalekite claimed to have killed someone he didn't. David had him killed.
Well, David's upside-down system of justice continues. Because Baanah and Recab killed Ish-Bosheth while he slept in his own room, and David figured he was an innocent man, despite being his enemy, he had the dudes killed. Enemies can be innocent. Not a concept I often think about. It is interesting that those who think the things they do will win them favor, but in this case, it was just a change of heart.
2 Sa. 3: Lament for Abner
2 Samuel 3:34 "Your hands were not bound, your feet were not fettered. You fell as one falls before wicked men."
The chapter opens reporting David having six sons by six different women. He was the Shawn Kemp of Bible times. The one difference being these were his wives. But they weren't enough, as we'll come to find out.
Anyway, Ish-Bosheth (the king Abner himself installed) goes and accuses Abner of banging one of Saul's comcubines. This is a false accusation, and Abner is so deeply offended he joins David. He completely switches sides, and goes to meet David. David throws him a feast and sends him on his way to run a PR tour to get the Benjamites and others to hitch their loyalty wagon to David.
Also part of the deal, and somewhat unsettling is David's insistence on having Michal back. Michal being the wife who aided David's escape from Saul back in 1 Samuel 19. Michal had already been given again in marriage to a man named Paltiel, about whom I know absolutely nothing, other than that he must have loved Michal deeply, for he followed Michal and Abner as far as he could, weeping. His wife was being confiscated from him to become the wife of someone who already had six. I don't know what kind of guy this was, but clearly his attachment to Michal was greater than that of David's originally. And maybe he had a bunch of wives, who knows.
But Joab comes back from the raid and sees Abner leaving. He confronts David...saying that this is the person who killed his brother Asahel. The Bible omits David's response here, and I'm curious as to what it was. Because of David's actions later in the chapter, I am guessing it was something along the lines of "Leave him alone, he's one of us now." Joab kills Abner anyway, and David brings down a pretty horrific curse on his family.
David's lament on Abner is pretty interesting. Abner was struck down as though he were wicked. Implying that he is not. Or is no longer. He wasn't chained, he wasn't shackled. He wasn't a prisoner. He was murdered essentially for no greater reason than personal vengeance. David doesn't take this vengeance, he leaves it to the LORD, and even more interesting, he declares that Joab and Abishai are too strong for him. They would get the best of him. If David wanted, they could have been executed instantly. But he lets go. And lets God.
The chapter opens reporting David having six sons by six different women. He was the Shawn Kemp of Bible times. The one difference being these were his wives. But they weren't enough, as we'll come to find out.
Anyway, Ish-Bosheth (the king Abner himself installed) goes and accuses Abner of banging one of Saul's comcubines. This is a false accusation, and Abner is so deeply offended he joins David. He completely switches sides, and goes to meet David. David throws him a feast and sends him on his way to run a PR tour to get the Benjamites and others to hitch their loyalty wagon to David.
Also part of the deal, and somewhat unsettling is David's insistence on having Michal back. Michal being the wife who aided David's escape from Saul back in 1 Samuel 19. Michal had already been given again in marriage to a man named Paltiel, about whom I know absolutely nothing, other than that he must have loved Michal deeply, for he followed Michal and Abner as far as he could, weeping. His wife was being confiscated from him to become the wife of someone who already had six. I don't know what kind of guy this was, but clearly his attachment to Michal was greater than that of David's originally. And maybe he had a bunch of wives, who knows.
But Joab comes back from the raid and sees Abner leaving. He confronts David...saying that this is the person who killed his brother Asahel. The Bible omits David's response here, and I'm curious as to what it was. Because of David's actions later in the chapter, I am guessing it was something along the lines of "Leave him alone, he's one of us now." Joab kills Abner anyway, and David brings down a pretty horrific curse on his family.
David's lament on Abner is pretty interesting. Abner was struck down as though he were wicked. Implying that he is not. Or is no longer. He wasn't chained, he wasn't shackled. He wasn't a prisoner. He was murdered essentially for no greater reason than personal vengeance. David doesn't take this vengeance, he leaves it to the LORD, and even more interesting, he declares that Joab and Abishai are too strong for him. They would get the best of him. If David wanted, they could have been executed instantly. But he lets go. And lets God.
Friday, July 18, 2008
2 Sa. 2: New King, New War
2 Samuel 16: "Then each man grabbed his opponent by the head and thrust his dagger into his opponent's side, and they fell down together. So that place in Gibeon was called Helkath Hazzurim."
David, probably ready to become king after a period of mourning, finally asks God where he should go, and God has him head to Judah. Hebron, to be exact.
From there, he is anointed king over Judah. However, Abner finds Ish-Bosheth, a descendant of Saul, and installs him king over the rest of Israel. There can't be two kings in one nation! Absurd. David, of course, is God's chosen king.
Then the two sides go to some pool one day and sit across from each other. They count off 12 guys from each side, and have them compete in a deadly hand-to-hand battle, one on one. And each man grabs his opponent by the hair, and stabs him to death, and they both went down together. How completely ridiculous. This display of bravado, and basically, a pissing match was pretty anticlimactic, turning out in the worst way possible for each side.
Then they go to war. Three brothers end up chasing an obviously scared Abner, and he was constantly at least one step ahead of Asahel, who, besides having his name made up of two naughty words, was described as being as fleet of foot as a gazelle. Abner was slightly faster apparently, and had time to turn around and stab Asahel to death. Then Asahel's brothers, Joab and Abishai take over the chase, but Abner gets back up from the Benjamites, so everyone goes home and David claims victory. So...nothing was really solved here.
David, probably ready to become king after a period of mourning, finally asks God where he should go, and God has him head to Judah. Hebron, to be exact.
From there, he is anointed king over Judah. However, Abner finds Ish-Bosheth, a descendant of Saul, and installs him king over the rest of Israel. There can't be two kings in one nation! Absurd. David, of course, is God's chosen king.
Then the two sides go to some pool one day and sit across from each other. They count off 12 guys from each side, and have them compete in a deadly hand-to-hand battle, one on one. And each man grabs his opponent by the hair, and stabs him to death, and they both went down together. How completely ridiculous. This display of bravado, and basically, a pissing match was pretty anticlimactic, turning out in the worst way possible for each side.
Then they go to war. Three brothers end up chasing an obviously scared Abner, and he was constantly at least one step ahead of Asahel, who, besides having his name made up of two naughty words, was described as being as fleet of foot as a gazelle. Abner was slightly faster apparently, and had time to turn around and stab Asahel to death. Then Asahel's brothers, Joab and Abishai take over the chase, but Abner gets back up from the Benjamites, so everyone goes home and David claims victory. So...nothing was really solved here.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
2 Sa. 1: Bros Before Hos
2 Samuel 1:26 "I grieve for you, Jonathan my brother; you were very dear to me. Your love for me was wonderful, more wonderful than that of women."
So David is just chillin' in Ziklag, after atomically wedgie-ing the Amalekites, when this Amalekite dude comes running in all haggard-like. The guy tells David he has come from the Israelite camp, and brings news about how Saul and Jonathan are dead. How does he know? He claims to be the one who ran Saul through, which is a lie, right? Because we just read how Saul fell on his own sword and killed himself. David doesn't know this, he wasn't there. This sends David and his men into a mourning and fasting period for the rest of the day. Then David asks the guy why he felt like he could be the one to kill the LORD's anointed. This concept, obviously very important to David (1 Sa. 26:9) led to him reacting in a way that seems harsh, killing the guy...but Israelites were directly commanded to kill Amalekites. This guy's bravado ("I killed Saul!") got him killed.
The mourning was not over yet. David wrote a song about it, and how he missed his friends. This is the second reference to the book of Jashar (Jos. 10:13). This has that famous refrain "O how the mighty have fallen." And this probably doesn't just refer to Saul. I would guess it also refers to Israel, being humiliated as a nation. They wanted a king to lead them, and here they are, crushed and slain as a result of this king's rejection of God. Just as was predicted.
David's lament here makes no mention of Saul's repeated attempts to kill him, rather it sort of exalts what Saul did that was good. 2 Samuel 1:26 is kind of mincy, where David proclaims that Jonathan's love was more wonderful than that of women. I would guess that was a deep friendship, and after all, this was an emotional time. What would you say at your best friend's eulogy? Were the women in David's life that lame? Abigail? The Bible doesn't blink at reporting man-on-man love (Lot in Genesis 19, the Levite six books later in Judges 19). So I have no reason to believe David and Jonathan were lovers. I guess. But who cares, anyway? They were good friends, which is the greater point.
So David is just chillin' in Ziklag, after atomically wedgie-ing the Amalekites, when this Amalekite dude comes running in all haggard-like. The guy tells David he has come from the Israelite camp, and brings news about how Saul and Jonathan are dead. How does he know? He claims to be the one who ran Saul through, which is a lie, right? Because we just read how Saul fell on his own sword and killed himself. David doesn't know this, he wasn't there. This sends David and his men into a mourning and fasting period for the rest of the day. Then David asks the guy why he felt like he could be the one to kill the LORD's anointed. This concept, obviously very important to David (1 Sa. 26:9) led to him reacting in a way that seems harsh, killing the guy...but Israelites were directly commanded to kill Amalekites. This guy's bravado ("I killed Saul!") got him killed.
The mourning was not over yet. David wrote a song about it, and how he missed his friends. This is the second reference to the book of Jashar (Jos. 10:13). This has that famous refrain "O how the mighty have fallen." And this probably doesn't just refer to Saul. I would guess it also refers to Israel, being humiliated as a nation. They wanted a king to lead them, and here they are, crushed and slain as a result of this king's rejection of God. Just as was predicted.
David's lament here makes no mention of Saul's repeated attempts to kill him, rather it sort of exalts what Saul did that was good. 2 Samuel 1:26 is kind of mincy, where David proclaims that Jonathan's love was more wonderful than that of women. I would guess that was a deep friendship, and after all, this was an emotional time. What would you say at your best friend's eulogy? Were the women in David's life that lame? Abigail? The Bible doesn't blink at reporting man-on-man love (Lot in Genesis 19, the Levite six books later in Judges 19). So I have no reason to believe David and Jonathan were lovers. I guess. But who cares, anyway? They were good friends, which is the greater point.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
1 Sa. 31: Death Becomes Saul
1 Samuel 31:6 "So Saul and his three sons and his armor-bearer and all his men died together that same day."
Samuel's words came true. Everything. Israel was crushed. Saul's sons died. Saul died. It was a bad idea to abandon the LORD and all the victory he granted to Saul early on. I still wonder about that exchange with Samuel and the witch. How often did this occur? What, if anything, makes those times a million years ago different from today?
Saul's armor bearer refused to kill the arrow-riddled king, because he was terrified. Who could kill a king? Did this armor bearer hear David's philosophy about killing the LORD's anointed before his time? I don't know. Probably not. But I wonder. It's still suicide when you command someone to kill you. Saul then falls on his own sword. I can't imagine the desperation involved in that. It looked like a good idea to the armor bearer so he did the same thing. Probably because he would get super busted for not protecting the king.
It's gross when people die in bible times. Saul and his sons had all their flesh burned off their bones, and then buried under a tamarisk tree in Jabesh.
So. What's up with David?
Samuel's words came true. Everything. Israel was crushed. Saul's sons died. Saul died. It was a bad idea to abandon the LORD and all the victory he granted to Saul early on. I still wonder about that exchange with Samuel and the witch. How often did this occur? What, if anything, makes those times a million years ago different from today?
Saul's armor bearer refused to kill the arrow-riddled king, because he was terrified. Who could kill a king? Did this armor bearer hear David's philosophy about killing the LORD's anointed before his time? I don't know. Probably not. But I wonder. It's still suicide when you command someone to kill you. Saul then falls on his own sword. I can't imagine the desperation involved in that. It looked like a good idea to the armor bearer so he did the same thing. Probably because he would get super busted for not protecting the king.
It's gross when people die in bible times. Saul and his sons had all their flesh burned off their bones, and then buried under a tamarisk tree in Jabesh.
So. What's up with David?
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
1 Sa. 30: David vs. Amalekites
1 Samuel 30:23 "David replied, 'No, my brothers, you must not do that with what the LORD has given us. He has protected us and handed over to us the forces that came against us.'"
Well, it is a good thing Achish sent David home, because he got there just in time to find out the Amalekites had raided Ziklag, stealing just about everything from David and his men. Dudes were all mad, David was distressed. But he still has the presence of mind to call on God. He calls for the Ephod and asks if he should proceed to clean the Amalekite clocks. I don't know if I would have waited. I would have thought it was obvious that I needed to go chasing after those uncircumcised fellows. But God tells him to, anyway. What if God told you that you would "certainly succeed" in whatever He would have you do?
Anyway, they lose a few guys because of the tiredness and exhaustion. But then they come across an Egyptian slave in a field who leads them to the Amalekites. And David kicks hiney, recovering all the plunder and the people. Not one person was killed according to the word.
David is all about sharing. He shares with the guys who were left behind and tired, even though that was unpopular with his warriors. He even gives some of the plunder back to his buddies in Judah. That is nice.
Well, it is a good thing Achish sent David home, because he got there just in time to find out the Amalekites had raided Ziklag, stealing just about everything from David and his men. Dudes were all mad, David was distressed. But he still has the presence of mind to call on God. He calls for the Ephod and asks if he should proceed to clean the Amalekite clocks. I don't know if I would have waited. I would have thought it was obvious that I needed to go chasing after those uncircumcised fellows. But God tells him to, anyway. What if God told you that you would "certainly succeed" in whatever He would have you do?
Anyway, they lose a few guys because of the tiredness and exhaustion. But then they come across an Egyptian slave in a field who leads them to the Amalekites. And David kicks hiney, recovering all the plunder and the people. Not one person was killed according to the word.
David is all about sharing. He shares with the guys who were left behind and tired, even though that was unpopular with his warriors. He even gives some of the plunder back to his buddies in Judah. That is nice.
1 Sa. 29: Achish Fires David
1 Samuel 29:6 "So Achish called David and said to him, 'As surely as the LORD lives, you have been reliable, and I would be pleased to have you serve with me in the army. From the day you came to me until now, I have found no fault in you, but the rulers don't approve of you.'"
Achish has to let David go here. I was all geared up for what was going to happen when the Philistines, who David assimilated into, and duped into believing he was a traitor, were all set to take on Israel, who David left. Achish would have ridden into battle next to David, but the Philistine rulers didn't want him along. They overruled Achish.
David, who was ... not entirely innocent of wrongdoing against Achish was not trusted by the rulers. But why? Was it just the simple fact that he was a Hebrew? That's what is written. But I wonder if someone knew something. If someone was tipped off about something? And I guess, would David have killed his own people to keep up the scheme? I guess I would think so. That wouldn't surprise me at this point.
Achish has to let David go here. I was all geared up for what was going to happen when the Philistines, who David assimilated into, and duped into believing he was a traitor, were all set to take on Israel, who David left. Achish would have ridden into battle next to David, but the Philistine rulers didn't want him along. They overruled Achish.
David, who was ... not entirely innocent of wrongdoing against Achish was not trusted by the rulers. But why? Was it just the simple fact that he was a Hebrew? That's what is written. But I wonder if someone knew something. If someone was tipped off about something? And I guess, would David have killed his own people to keep up the scheme? I guess I would think so. That wouldn't surprise me at this point.
Monday, July 14, 2008
1 Sa. 28: Witchy Woman
1 Samuel 28:15 "Samuel said to Saul, 'Why have you disturbed me by bringing me up?'
'I am in great distress,' Saul said. 'The Philistines are fighting against me, and God has turned away from me. He no longer answers me, either by prophets or by dreams. So I have called on you to tell me what to do.'"
Well, David's plan might finally get screwed up, as Achish tells David that they are preparing to go to war. Against Israel! EVERYBODY PANIC. David, cool as a cucumber, says, "Yeah, just watch what your servant can do." So that will be interesting to see what happens. Now for the cliffhanger...
Saul, seeing the Philistine army, tried everything to see what God would say, God was silent, as though he had turned a deaf ear to Saul. Or Saul had abandoned God. Anyway, Saul rationally and patiently confesses before God and repents. Just kidding. He consults the witch of Endor. Yeah. He banished all seers and witches previously, so this witch is a little leery of this disguised Saul. But anyway, she Abra-cadabras, and up comes Samuel. Apparently. Or someone she thinks is Samuel. She totally freaks, whether it finally actually worked, or because she knew Samuel and Saul's history.
Samuel asks the question of the hour. "Why have you disturbed me?" This is another piece to the afterlife puzzle, I think. Apparently it is rest. And apparently those who have crossed over do not want to be disturbed, especially by whiny prima donna kings. And Saul should have known Samuel was not going to have anything resembling good news for him. In fact, it's just about the worst news in the history of time. God has taken away your kingdom, you're going to lose, you and your sons are going to die, and Israelite army will be handed over the Philistines.
More about the afterlife. Samuel says Saul and his sons "will be with me." Now, Samuel was good. For the most part. Saul, not so much. Jonathan, good as far as we know. Other sons, we don't really know. So wherever these people are going, their righteousness in life apparently has no bearing.
And I wonder how much was revealed to Samuel. And to what degree. Did he remember what happened while he was still alive? What did God tell him? What was his walk with God like after death?
Just curious.
'I am in great distress,' Saul said. 'The Philistines are fighting against me, and God has turned away from me. He no longer answers me, either by prophets or by dreams. So I have called on you to tell me what to do.'"
Well, David's plan might finally get screwed up, as Achish tells David that they are preparing to go to war. Against Israel! EVERYBODY PANIC. David, cool as a cucumber, says, "Yeah, just watch what your servant can do." So that will be interesting to see what happens. Now for the cliffhanger...
Saul, seeing the Philistine army, tried everything to see what God would say, God was silent, as though he had turned a deaf ear to Saul. Or Saul had abandoned God. Anyway, Saul rationally and patiently confesses before God and repents. Just kidding. He consults the witch of Endor. Yeah. He banished all seers and witches previously, so this witch is a little leery of this disguised Saul. But anyway, she Abra-cadabras, and up comes Samuel. Apparently. Or someone she thinks is Samuel. She totally freaks, whether it finally actually worked, or because she knew Samuel and Saul's history.
Samuel asks the question of the hour. "Why have you disturbed me?" This is another piece to the afterlife puzzle, I think. Apparently it is rest. And apparently those who have crossed over do not want to be disturbed, especially by whiny prima donna kings. And Saul should have known Samuel was not going to have anything resembling good news for him. In fact, it's just about the worst news in the history of time. God has taken away your kingdom, you're going to lose, you and your sons are going to die, and Israelite army will be handed over the Philistines.
More about the afterlife. Samuel says Saul and his sons "will be with me." Now, Samuel was good. For the most part. Saul, not so much. Jonathan, good as far as we know. Other sons, we don't really know. So wherever these people are going, their righteousness in life apparently has no bearing.
And I wonder how much was revealed to Samuel. And to what degree. Did he remember what happened while he was still alive? What did God tell him? What was his walk with God like after death?
Just curious.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
1 Sa. 27: David the Philistine
1 Samuel 27:8 "Now David and his men went up and raided the Geshurites, the Girzites and the Amalekites. (From ancient times these peoples had lived in the land extending to Shur and Egypt.)"
I guess what's most amazing about chapter 28 is that David still attacks Israel's enemies, using his band of merry men, in spite of not being in the employ of Israel. He can't stay in Israel, because he realizes that Saul will continue to pursue him. He moves to Gath, under the kingship of Achish. Who David duped into believing he was insane. But he wasn't. And if Achish can be fooled once, he can be fooled again. David spends his time (16 months) in Ziklag (the territory Achish gave him) raiding and annihilating the Geshurites, the Girzites and the Amalekites.
Friends of Gath. But he tells Achish that he is fighting Israelite settlements. This allowed him to live in peace in enemy territory. Achish was even of the understanding that David was a traitor to his people, and counted on David being his servant forever.
I think it's kind of ballsy to go back to Achish after the insanity ruse. Either Achish was just that gullible, or Achish forgot about it, or let it slide in order to have David on his side.
I don't want to leave out how Saul stopped pursuing David. And I don't believe it was because Saul leveled with David in the previous chapter. With David out of the country, Saul was able to be rid of David without killing him, which would have been a PR blunder of Biblical proportions, given David's popularity and legend. Saul also had to take care of his country, lest his approval rating plummet.
I guess what's most amazing about chapter 28 is that David still attacks Israel's enemies, using his band of merry men, in spite of not being in the employ of Israel. He can't stay in Israel, because he realizes that Saul will continue to pursue him. He moves to Gath, under the kingship of Achish. Who David duped into believing he was insane. But he wasn't. And if Achish can be fooled once, he can be fooled again. David spends his time (16 months) in Ziklag (the territory Achish gave him) raiding and annihilating the Geshurites, the Girzites and the Amalekites.
Friends of Gath. But he tells Achish that he is fighting Israelite settlements. This allowed him to live in peace in enemy territory. Achish was even of the understanding that David was a traitor to his people, and counted on David being his servant forever.
I think it's kind of ballsy to go back to Achish after the insanity ruse. Either Achish was just that gullible, or Achish forgot about it, or let it slide in order to have David on his side.
I don't want to leave out how Saul stopped pursuing David. And I don't believe it was because Saul leveled with David in the previous chapter. With David out of the country, Saul was able to be rid of David without killing him, which would have been a PR blunder of Biblical proportions, given David's popularity and legend. Saul also had to take care of his country, lest his approval rating plummet.
Saturday, July 12, 2008
1 Sa. 26: David Doesn't Kill Saul
1 Samuel 26:12 "So David took the spear and water jug near Saul's head, and they left. No one saw or knew about it, nor did anyone wake up. They were all sleeping, because the LORD had put them into a deep sleep."
Saul is back to chasing David again. This is a bad habit for Saul. It has almost gotten him killed once. If David was the king-killin' kind. But he's not. And not because David wouldn't kill King Saul if Saul was just some run-of-the-mill Benjamite. Because David probably would. It is because Saul is the LORD's anointed. I don't know if there are some chronology issues here, but the LORD has rejected Saul as king (1 Sa. 15), and Samuel even anointed David as successor (1 Sa. 16), and the spirit of the LORD even left Saul. So I'm still not entirely sure of what is stopping David from pulling the trigger with Saul in the crosshairs. David instead allows that God be the judge of Saul, whether Saul falls in battle, or dies of old age, or is thrown headlong into a woodchipper.
Anyway, Saul and his general, Abner are having a sleep in the desert of Ziph, when David comes up and swipes Saul's spear and water jug. When David gets what he determines to be a safe distance away, he calls out Abner, asking him why he would allow this danger so close to the king. Additionally, David calls for a test to see if Saul's pursuit is from the LORD or not.
And Saul offers pleasantries and blessing verbally to David, while inside, I imagine he must have been seething. Mad at everyone. I just don't think this guy will ever reform.
Saul is back to chasing David again. This is a bad habit for Saul. It has almost gotten him killed once. If David was the king-killin' kind. But he's not. And not because David wouldn't kill King Saul if Saul was just some run-of-the-mill Benjamite. Because David probably would. It is because Saul is the LORD's anointed. I don't know if there are some chronology issues here, but the LORD has rejected Saul as king (1 Sa. 15), and Samuel even anointed David as successor (1 Sa. 16), and the spirit of the LORD even left Saul. So I'm still not entirely sure of what is stopping David from pulling the trigger with Saul in the crosshairs. David instead allows that God be the judge of Saul, whether Saul falls in battle, or dies of old age, or is thrown headlong into a woodchipper.
Anyway, Saul and his general, Abner are having a sleep in the desert of Ziph, when David comes up and swipes Saul's spear and water jug. When David gets what he determines to be a safe distance away, he calls out Abner, asking him why he would allow this danger so close to the king. Additionally, David calls for a test to see if Saul's pursuit is from the LORD or not.
And Saul offers pleasantries and blessing verbally to David, while inside, I imagine he must have been seething. Mad at everyone. I just don't think this guy will ever reform.
1 Sa. 25: David Takes Wives
1 Samuel 25:31 "My master will not have on his conscience the staggering burden of needless bloodshed or of having avenged himself. And when the LORD has brought my master success, remember your servant."
David and his men go into the desert, and there's some rich guy with a lot of land and beautiful wife. Out of the goodness of his heart, David and his men guard this landowner's (Nabal) flocks. Eventually, David goes and asks for a favor for all this guarding. Nabal loses his mind, because he claims he doesn't know who this guy David is (even though his wife knew he killed Goliath with a stone from a sling). What's more, Nabal didn't ask for David to guard all his stuff. Despite David's friendly greeting, to a point I can understand Nabal's d-baggish response.
This response riles up David to the point where he wants to wipe out Nabal's entire staff, pissing against a wall (KJV) or not. Abigail finds out about this whole plan, and she brings an offering of peace (so David gets a bunch of food, anyway) and rational conversation. Abigail assumes the blame, deflecting the judgment off of Nabal, and staying David's hand of vengeance. She calls the no longer inevitable bloodshed "needless," and I tend to agree, because this whole vignette on the surface looked like David being presumptuous. It looks like David picking out some rich guy, guarding his land without being asked, and then expecting great reward. Does that also not speak to how we expect reward for our token actions?
Anyway, David was ready to wipe out this entire gaggle of fools, but Abigail appeases David. Its a pretty amazing soliloquy from verses 26-31. Of course David would be protected. Of course David's enemies would be hurled away "like a stone from the pocket of a sling." David probably knew all this, but needed to be told. Abigail, David's servant, wants to be remembered in David's success. Abigail could see what God was doing with David.
Abigail eventually has to tell Nabal what happened, and he died he was so shocked or mad or depressed. His heart became like a stone, the Bible says. Of course David gets the girl, marrying Abigail shortly after that. And Ahinoam. What happened to Michal, who loved David? Saul gave her away to some other dude. So this all seems like a thickening plot. And a soap opera.
David and his men go into the desert, and there's some rich guy with a lot of land and beautiful wife. Out of the goodness of his heart, David and his men guard this landowner's (Nabal) flocks. Eventually, David goes and asks for a favor for all this guarding. Nabal loses his mind, because he claims he doesn't know who this guy David is (even though his wife knew he killed Goliath with a stone from a sling). What's more, Nabal didn't ask for David to guard all his stuff. Despite David's friendly greeting, to a point I can understand Nabal's d-baggish response.
This response riles up David to the point where he wants to wipe out Nabal's entire staff, pissing against a wall (KJV) or not. Abigail finds out about this whole plan, and she brings an offering of peace (so David gets a bunch of food, anyway) and rational conversation. Abigail assumes the blame, deflecting the judgment off of Nabal, and staying David's hand of vengeance. She calls the no longer inevitable bloodshed "needless," and I tend to agree, because this whole vignette on the surface looked like David being presumptuous. It looks like David picking out some rich guy, guarding his land without being asked, and then expecting great reward. Does that also not speak to how we expect reward for our token actions?
Anyway, David was ready to wipe out this entire gaggle of fools, but Abigail appeases David. Its a pretty amazing soliloquy from verses 26-31. Of course David would be protected. Of course David's enemies would be hurled away "like a stone from the pocket of a sling." David probably knew all this, but needed to be told. Abigail, David's servant, wants to be remembered in David's success. Abigail could see what God was doing with David.
Abigail eventually has to tell Nabal what happened, and he died he was so shocked or mad or depressed. His heart became like a stone, the Bible says. Of course David gets the girl, marrying Abigail shortly after that. And Ahinoam. What happened to Michal, who loved David? Saul gave her away to some other dude. So this all seems like a thickening plot. And a soap opera.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
1 Sa. 24: Robe-Cutter
1 Samuel 24:19 "When a man finds his enemy, does he let him get away unharmed? May the LORD reward you well for the way you treated me today."
Saul takes care of business (victory or defeat are not implied) with the Philistines, and manages to find his way into the exact cave David and his merry men were occupying. Saul goes in to take a dump, and David sneaks up and cuts off a corner of Saul's robe. I find his sudden attack of conscience at this quite interesting. David had an opportunity to mail it to Saul and say, "Ha! I could have killed you!" and hold it over Saul. But he didn't. David was actually despondent at his own actions. Eventually, he does come out and confront Saul, but it's a spirit of peace.
What's interesting here is David's implication that Saul was afraid David was trying to harm him. I don't recall reading that anywhere, but I've missed things before. Earlier, Saul appears to be jealous of David's victories. And that's all it is. Petty spite. But Saul may have been afraid of David. I would have thought any fear would have been due to David's influence on the rest of the nation of Israel, but here David is, attempting to smooth over the rough patch he and Saul have endured. Saul gives the appearance of regret, and wanting to make a treaty, but these are words. So we'll see what actually happens, if there is a real change of heart. I'm skeptical, myself.
Saul takes care of business (victory or defeat are not implied) with the Philistines, and manages to find his way into the exact cave David and his merry men were occupying. Saul goes in to take a dump, and David sneaks up and cuts off a corner of Saul's robe. I find his sudden attack of conscience at this quite interesting. David had an opportunity to mail it to Saul and say, "Ha! I could have killed you!" and hold it over Saul. But he didn't. David was actually despondent at his own actions. Eventually, he does come out and confront Saul, but it's a spirit of peace.
What's interesting here is David's implication that Saul was afraid David was trying to harm him. I don't recall reading that anywhere, but I've missed things before. Earlier, Saul appears to be jealous of David's victories. And that's all it is. Petty spite. But Saul may have been afraid of David. I would have thought any fear would have been due to David's influence on the rest of the nation of Israel, but here David is, attempting to smooth over the rough patch he and Saul have endured. Saul gives the appearance of regret, and wanting to make a treaty, but these are words. So we'll see what actually happens, if there is a real change of heart. I'm skeptical, myself.
1 Sa. 23: Cat and Mouse
1 Samuel 23:12 "Again David asked, "Will the citizens of Keilah surrender me and my men to Saul?" And the LORD said, "They will."
David saves the city of Keilah after asking God if he should go and save them. Of course, because God delivered the Philistines into David's hands. I find this faith very heartening. This is what David does, because of the presence of the phrase "once again" in the sentence. He established a habit of doing this, thus noted by the author. If I consulted God about a decision...I don't know if one could say, "once again, Jon consulted God." You?
But this town betrays David to Saul, in spite of David's heroism. They must have assumed that Saul would reward them handsomely for handing over David, as his feud with Saul must have been highly publicized. Secondly, this makes me think that while David was exceedingly well renowned, apparently not to the point where a city would risk the charge of treason against the king.
This betrayal sets off a ridiculous cat-and-mouse pursuit for Saul after David. So much of Saul's resources are consumed in this chase that the Philistines seize this moment of weakness to attack Israel. Then Saul lets David go for the time being. Makes me think about what pointless chases I go off on, and leave important things unguarded.
David saves the city of Keilah after asking God if he should go and save them. Of course, because God delivered the Philistines into David's hands. I find this faith very heartening. This is what David does, because of the presence of the phrase "once again" in the sentence. He established a habit of doing this, thus noted by the author. If I consulted God about a decision...I don't know if one could say, "once again, Jon consulted God." You?
But this town betrays David to Saul, in spite of David's heroism. They must have assumed that Saul would reward them handsomely for handing over David, as his feud with Saul must have been highly publicized. Secondly, this makes me think that while David was exceedingly well renowned, apparently not to the point where a city would risk the charge of treason against the king.
This betrayal sets off a ridiculous cat-and-mouse pursuit for Saul after David. So much of Saul's resources are consumed in this chase that the Philistines seize this moment of weakness to attack Israel. Then Saul lets David go for the time being. Makes me think about what pointless chases I go off on, and leave important things unguarded.
Wednesday, July 09, 2008
1 Sa. 22: The Nob Murders
1 Samuel 22:23 "Stay with me; don't be afraid; the man who is seeking your life is seeking mine also. You will be safe with me."
The Bible (at this point) doesn't bore us with the details of David's escape from Gath. But he did escape. And in continuing high weirdness, a group of people described as in debt and in distress come to stay with David in a cave. Then David turns them over to watchful eye of the king of Moab in Mizpah. At this point, apparently the Moabites aren't enemies, but they ain't exactly good buddies. A prophet tells David to go to Judah, so he does. David does what prophets tell him.
Meanwhile, Saul is at Gibeah throwing a tantrum about how Jesse's family can't provide all the stuff Saul can, so there is no reason to rebel against him, presuming it's all conspiracy against him. Now that is some paranoia.
Doeg speaks up and mentions that the priest at Nob helped David. Of course Saul goes over and has them all killed. Sick. It's just getting sick, this obsession. I wonder if this is still that evil spirit...
And perhaps the most telling phrase here is where Saul says "Kill the priests of the LORD, for they have sided with David." Now, if we're talking about sides here...and Saul would kill those who ally themselves with the LORD. Saul is clearly not on the side of the LORD. Or maybe it doesn't matter.
Ahimelech, the priest murdered at Nob, had a son who fled to David, and David knows that those who roll with him will be protected. Even though he is a marked man, he was fully confident in the LORD's providence for him...I love it. Brazen. Cocky?
The Bible (at this point) doesn't bore us with the details of David's escape from Gath. But he did escape. And in continuing high weirdness, a group of people described as in debt and in distress come to stay with David in a cave. Then David turns them over to watchful eye of the king of Moab in Mizpah. At this point, apparently the Moabites aren't enemies, but they ain't exactly good buddies. A prophet tells David to go to Judah, so he does. David does what prophets tell him.
Meanwhile, Saul is at Gibeah throwing a tantrum about how Jesse's family can't provide all the stuff Saul can, so there is no reason to rebel against him, presuming it's all conspiracy against him. Now that is some paranoia.
Doeg speaks up and mentions that the priest at Nob helped David. Of course Saul goes over and has them all killed. Sick. It's just getting sick, this obsession. I wonder if this is still that evil spirit...
And perhaps the most telling phrase here is where Saul says "Kill the priests of the LORD, for they have sided with David." Now, if we're talking about sides here...and Saul would kill those who ally themselves with the LORD. Saul is clearly not on the side of the LORD. Or maybe it doesn't matter.
Ahimelech, the priest murdered at Nob, had a son who fled to David, and David knows that those who roll with him will be protected. Even though he is a marked man, he was fully confident in the LORD's providence for him...I love it. Brazen. Cocky?
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
1 Sa. 21: Crazy Bread
1 Samuel 21:6 "So the priest gave him the consecrated bread, since there was no bread there except the bread of the Presence that had been removed from before the LORD and replaced by hot bread on the day it was taken away."
David, apparently on his trek fleeing from Saul, winds up at the tabernacle...whether or not that was his aim, I don't know. He pretends to be on a secret mission from the king, therefore giving him power where otherwise he may not have had it. He convinces Ahimelech, the priest to give him the bread of the Presence to eat.
Then, presumably to protect himself from Doeg, Saul's head shepherd, he takes Goliath's sword from the tabernacle and proceeds to Gath. Goliath's hometown. I just have no idea what is going on here. There he pretends to be crazy as he is captured by the Gathites. I love Achish the King's reaction to having David in his presence. "Am I so short of madmen that you have to bring this fellow here to carry on like this in front of me? Must this man come into my house?" Ha, what a great quote. The idea of being short of madmen I find hilarious, and I trust you will too.
Is David's life coming apart? Why the facade? Why eat the holy showbread? I want answers.
David, apparently on his trek fleeing from Saul, winds up at the tabernacle...whether or not that was his aim, I don't know. He pretends to be on a secret mission from the king, therefore giving him power where otherwise he may not have had it. He convinces Ahimelech, the priest to give him the bread of the Presence to eat.
Then, presumably to protect himself from Doeg, Saul's head shepherd, he takes Goliath's sword from the tabernacle and proceeds to Gath. Goliath's hometown. I just have no idea what is going on here. There he pretends to be crazy as he is captured by the Gathites. I love Achish the King's reaction to having David in his presence. "Am I so short of madmen that you have to bring this fellow here to carry on like this in front of me? Must this man come into my house?" Ha, what a great quote. The idea of being short of madmen I find hilarious, and I trust you will too.
Is David's life coming apart? Why the facade? Why eat the holy showbread? I want answers.
1 Sa. 20: Saul Still Wants David Dead More
1 Samuel 20:42 "Jonathan said to David, 'Go in peace, for we have sworn friendship with each other in the name of the LORD, saying, 'The LORD is witness between you and me, and between your descendants and my descendants forever.'' Then David left, and Jonathan went back to the town."
David has this question as to why Saul would want him dead. Really David? You are a monster on the battlefield, and command respect and the love of the Israelites. Saul is derided in song. Are you sure you don't have any idea why Saul wants to kill you? Just curious, is all. David assumes it is because of his friendship with Jonathan.
And maybe it is. They are close friends, despite Jonathan's dad wanting David dead. Jonathan, surprisingly, is unconvinced. ("If I knew, I'd tell you.") Because of Saul's hatred for David, David needs to keep clear. They devise elaborate Alias-style schemes involving arrow-shooting to send messages to each other, and use Saul's reactions to discern what the next course of action will be.
Of course Saul loses his mind when Jonathan makes an excuse for David's absence at the New Moon feast. Saul even goes as far as to rip on Jonathan's own mother. Absolutely devastating.
This friendship the two have is pretty amazing. They realize they need to go separate ways, and it leads to heartbreaking weeping for both. In order to protect David's life, Jonathan sends him away. Sad to see such an end. They are friends forever. Spit brothers, probably. Maybe even blood brothers. Who knows.
David has this question as to why Saul would want him dead. Really David? You are a monster on the battlefield, and command respect and the love of the Israelites. Saul is derided in song. Are you sure you don't have any idea why Saul wants to kill you? Just curious, is all. David assumes it is because of his friendship with Jonathan.
And maybe it is. They are close friends, despite Jonathan's dad wanting David dead. Jonathan, surprisingly, is unconvinced. ("If I knew, I'd tell you.") Because of Saul's hatred for David, David needs to keep clear. They devise elaborate Alias-style schemes involving arrow-shooting to send messages to each other, and use Saul's reactions to discern what the next course of action will be.
Of course Saul loses his mind when Jonathan makes an excuse for David's absence at the New Moon feast. Saul even goes as far as to rip on Jonathan's own mother. Absolutely devastating.
This friendship the two have is pretty amazing. They realize they need to go separate ways, and it leads to heartbreaking weeping for both. In order to protect David's life, Jonathan sends him away. Sad to see such an end. They are friends forever. Spit brothers, probably. Maybe even blood brothers. Who knows.
Monday, July 07, 2008
1 Sa. 19: Saul Still Wants David Dead
1 Samuel 19:23 "So Saul went to Naioth at Ramah. But the Spirit of God came even upon him, and he walked along prophesying until he came to Naioth."
Saul still wants David dead, so he orders a hit. On his greatest military commander. See how envy clouds the mind? Saul was willing to give up dominance over the Philistines to settle his own jealousy. It also affected his common sense faculties as well. If David had the respect of the people, surely he had the respect of the people he led into battle. These were the men Saul expected would kill David. Right. Anyway, of course Jonathan warns David to be on his guard, so David escapes.
In spite of Jonathan's advice to not kill David, Saul goes ahead with a plan to watch David's house and kill him in the morning. Michal warned David about it, as she was apparently still in love with him. And let him down through a window. She placed an idol in David's place, and put some goats' hair at the head, and told the assassins David was ill. So, I guess the most important question I have is "Why did this man of God, a man after God's own heart have an idol?" I don't know if David worshipped it. I expect God wouldn't bless someone so well if he also served an idol. Look at where Samuel and Joshua instructed the Israelites to rid their homes of ancillary gods. Perhaps this was Michal's property? Coming from the house of Saul, who apparently became polythiestic? The spirit left him...I wonder about this.
Then there's this place Naioth, and if anyone goes there, they all end up prophesying...Saul included. Not in just any spirit. The Spirit of God. Why? How did this happen? It appears that all a person had to do was go to this place and they could prophesy.
Saul still wants David dead, so he orders a hit. On his greatest military commander. See how envy clouds the mind? Saul was willing to give up dominance over the Philistines to settle his own jealousy. It also affected his common sense faculties as well. If David had the respect of the people, surely he had the respect of the people he led into battle. These were the men Saul expected would kill David. Right. Anyway, of course Jonathan warns David to be on his guard, so David escapes.
In spite of Jonathan's advice to not kill David, Saul goes ahead with a plan to watch David's house and kill him in the morning. Michal warned David about it, as she was apparently still in love with him. And let him down through a window. She placed an idol in David's place, and put some goats' hair at the head, and told the assassins David was ill. So, I guess the most important question I have is "Why did this man of God, a man after God's own heart have an idol?" I don't know if David worshipped it. I expect God wouldn't bless someone so well if he also served an idol. Look at where Samuel and Joshua instructed the Israelites to rid their homes of ancillary gods. Perhaps this was Michal's property? Coming from the house of Saul, who apparently became polythiestic? The spirit left him...I wonder about this.
Then there's this place Naioth, and if anyone goes there, they all end up prophesying...Saul included. Not in just any spirit. The Spirit of God. Why? How did this happen? It appears that all a person had to do was go to this place and they could prophesy.
1 Sa. 18: Saul Wants David Dead
1 Samuel 18:8 "Saul was very angry; this refrain galled him. 'They have credited David with tens of thousands," he thought, "but me with only thousands. What more can he get but the kingdom?'"
I suppose its modern cynicism that makes me raise an eyebrow at Jonathan's friendship with David. It just reads in kind of a fruity way. When Jonathan meets David, he basically takes off his clothes and gives them to him. Sort of odd. Also, not something I want to believe about the two men whose namesake I bear. Can they just be good friends? Is it possible for two dudes to be really close, loving friends without the spectre of being homosexuals, something clearly forbidden in previous chapters? But that's the reaction I've been conditioned for. Too bad.
Saul begins to resent David's military victories, commissioned by himself, and granted by God. David keeps his faith, and this pleases God to keep giving David the victory. Songs are sung elevating David's prowess above Saul's, and in spite of David's calming presence in the king's court, Saul attempts twice to spear David to the wall.
So, Saul, unable to rid himself of David, continues to send him to war and make seemingly unreasonable demands on him, hoping the Philistines will kill him. Including bringing back 200 Philistine Phoreskins, the requirement being 100. Friggin' gross. He also throws in his daughter, Merab, as a prize if he keeps going to war. David finds it all very pretentious...as though someone had been tipping him to Saul's intentions...David refuses Merab, and eventually marries Michal.
Saul knew God was with David. Is there anything more disheartening than knowing, realizing that God has left you? No small wonder Saul would try anything to endanger or kill David.
I suppose its modern cynicism that makes me raise an eyebrow at Jonathan's friendship with David. It just reads in kind of a fruity way. When Jonathan meets David, he basically takes off his clothes and gives them to him. Sort of odd. Also, not something I want to believe about the two men whose namesake I bear. Can they just be good friends? Is it possible for two dudes to be really close, loving friends without the spectre of being homosexuals, something clearly forbidden in previous chapters? But that's the reaction I've been conditioned for. Too bad.
Saul begins to resent David's military victories, commissioned by himself, and granted by God. David keeps his faith, and this pleases God to keep giving David the victory. Songs are sung elevating David's prowess above Saul's, and in spite of David's calming presence in the king's court, Saul attempts twice to spear David to the wall.
So, Saul, unable to rid himself of David, continues to send him to war and make seemingly unreasonable demands on him, hoping the Philistines will kill him. Including bringing back 200 Philistine Phoreskins, the requirement being 100. Friggin' gross. He also throws in his daughter, Merab, as a prize if he keeps going to war. David finds it all very pretentious...as though someone had been tipping him to Saul's intentions...David refuses Merab, and eventually marries Michal.
Saul knew God was with David. Is there anything more disheartening than knowing, realizing that God has left you? No small wonder Saul would try anything to endanger or kill David.
Sunday, July 06, 2008
1 Sa. 17: A Giant Problem...heh heh.
1 Samuel 17:49 "Reaching into his bag and taking out a stone, he slung it and struck the Philistine on the forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell facedown on the ground."
This must be a flashback...or not chronological with chapter 16. At the end of 16, David is serving Saul in the king's court. At the end of 17, Saul doesn't know who David is. Does Saul have that many people in his court? I don't know. But anyway.
This is perhaps one of the best-known Bible stories ever. The birthplace of sports cliches, David and Goliath. David, the unknown shepherd boy coming out of nowhere...the least among the family of Jesse. Goliath, the nine-footer out of Philistine State. Offerings of the king's daughter's hand in marriage...tax exemption.
David had complete and total faith in God. David drew from the experiences of killing a lion and a bear to protect the flock he was charged with guarding. How could he be afraid in this situation? I'd take on a nine-foot warrior over a lion or a bear any day. Maybe. Right? I wonder.
David took the typical criticisms...too small, inexperienced, wrong weaponry...but David needed one of the five smooth stones he took from a stream to kill the giant. I love how David ran at Goliath. Just throwing aside anything resembling fear or hesitation, and rushing headlong into battle. He knew he was going to be the victor, without a doubt in his mind. And something tells me it wasn't just the impetuousness of his youth.
And because of this, the Philistines freaked, because this was their guy, and some kid took him down. The Israelites were given a huge military victory that day. David's trust in God brought God's victory.
Was Goliath a Nephilim? If the flood was a total wipeout of Earth's population except for Noah, then no. An Anakite? Perhaps. Joshua says that Anakites remained in Gaza, Gath and Ashdod...Gath being Goliath's hometown.
This must be a flashback...or not chronological with chapter 16. At the end of 16, David is serving Saul in the king's court. At the end of 17, Saul doesn't know who David is. Does Saul have that many people in his court? I don't know. But anyway.
This is perhaps one of the best-known Bible stories ever. The birthplace of sports cliches, David and Goliath. David, the unknown shepherd boy coming out of nowhere...the least among the family of Jesse. Goliath, the nine-footer out of Philistine State. Offerings of the king's daughter's hand in marriage...tax exemption.
David had complete and total faith in God. David drew from the experiences of killing a lion and a bear to protect the flock he was charged with guarding. How could he be afraid in this situation? I'd take on a nine-foot warrior over a lion or a bear any day. Maybe. Right? I wonder.
David took the typical criticisms...too small, inexperienced, wrong weaponry...but David needed one of the five smooth stones he took from a stream to kill the giant. I love how David ran at Goliath. Just throwing aside anything resembling fear or hesitation, and rushing headlong into battle. He knew he was going to be the victor, without a doubt in his mind. And something tells me it wasn't just the impetuousness of his youth.
And because of this, the Philistines freaked, because this was their guy, and some kid took him down. The Israelites were given a huge military victory that day. David's trust in God brought God's victory.
Was Goliath a Nephilim? If the flood was a total wipeout of Earth's population except for Noah, then no. An Anakite? Perhaps. Joshua says that Anakites remained in Gaza, Gath and Ashdod...Gath being Goliath's hometown.
Saturday, July 05, 2008
1 Sa. 16: Harping Shepherd King
1 Samuel 16:11 "So he asked Jesse, 'Are these all the sons you have?'
'There is still the youngest,' Jesse answered, 'but he is tending the sheep.'
Samuel said, 'Send for him; we will not sit down until he arrives.'"
Saul's deposing was troubling to Samuel. Samuel seemed like the type of guy who wanted to see Israel get back on track without much upheaval. Now there was a king. Now the king was a failure. Now there was going to be a new king. Changes, changes, changes. But God had it all figured out, so there was no cause for alarm. God had the next step already planned out. And even God's conduit to man, Samuel, had no idea, and still managed to be troubled in his heart.
The chosen one was David, after a sort of Man Pageant from the house of Jesse. Saul was unaware of the goings-on, as it was obscured by the sacrifice ruse.
And the most ironic thing of it all...Saul, tormented by an evil spirit from the LORD, had David come to his court to soothe him with his harp playing. Yeah. His replacement. Came to his own court. To make him feel better. Amazing irony, I spose, since Saul had no idea he was even being replaced.
And I wonder about this evil spirit from the LORD. Did God inflict evil on Saul? Did God just allow an evil spirit to torture Saul? Also...another shepherd becomes king. Saul was a donkey-minder, and here comes David, last mentioned in Ruth 4, a shepherd boy, not chosen because of his stature and reputation, quite the opposite. It was because of his heart. We'll see if this trend continues.
'There is still the youngest,' Jesse answered, 'but he is tending the sheep.'
Samuel said, 'Send for him; we will not sit down until he arrives.'"
Saul's deposing was troubling to Samuel. Samuel seemed like the type of guy who wanted to see Israel get back on track without much upheaval. Now there was a king. Now the king was a failure. Now there was going to be a new king. Changes, changes, changes. But God had it all figured out, so there was no cause for alarm. God had the next step already planned out. And even God's conduit to man, Samuel, had no idea, and still managed to be troubled in his heart.
The chosen one was David, after a sort of Man Pageant from the house of Jesse. Saul was unaware of the goings-on, as it was obscured by the sacrifice ruse.
And the most ironic thing of it all...Saul, tormented by an evil spirit from the LORD, had David come to his court to soothe him with his harp playing. Yeah. His replacement. Came to his own court. To make him feel better. Amazing irony, I spose, since Saul had no idea he was even being replaced.
And I wonder about this evil spirit from the LORD. Did God inflict evil on Saul? Did God just allow an evil spirit to torture Saul? Also...another shepherd becomes king. Saul was a donkey-minder, and here comes David, last mentioned in Ruth 4, a shepherd boy, not chosen because of his stature and reputation, quite the opposite. It was because of his heart. We'll see if this trend continues.
Friday, July 04, 2008
1 Sa. 15: Saul Screws Up
1 Samuel 15:28 "Samuel said to him, 'The LORD has torn the kingdom of Israel from you today and has given it to one of your neighbors—to one better than you.'"
Saul goes to war against the Amalekites as God's hand of vengeance against them for obstructing Israel's path to freedom out of Egypt. This war was commanded by God, as was the degree of violence, as in wiping out every human being, and all of the livestock. They were to be completely wiped off the face of the earth.
After booting the Kenite neighbors from the vicinity, they crushed the Amalekites. Almost completely. Which was not what God commanded. God wanted total annihilation. Saul spared the king, and some plunder.
This greatly displeased God, and He told Samuel that Saul had turned away from Him. Samuel spent the night crying out to God. Can you imagine the agony Samuel must have felt to spend all night groaning and crying out? That is some kind of pain. Why did he feel like this? Saul was anointed by Samuel, as a replacement for God. Now this king turned away from God, disobeying God. Samuel, who would have been Israel's leader and judge, apparently still had his faith, and still had a dynamic relationship with God.
I find the meeting between Samuel and Saul somewhat comical. As Samuel approaches the king's camp, Saul comes out saying, "The LORD bless you! I have carried out the LORD's instructions."
Samuel: "What then is this bleating of sheep in my ears? What is this lowing of cattle that I hear?"
Now, I think Samuel may be referring to the actual sheep and cattle, but I think under the surface, he is referring the nonsense coming out of Saul's mouth. Which is funny. Come on.
Saul: "The soldiers brought them from the Amalekites; they spared the best of the sheep and cattle to sacrifice to the LORD your God, but we totally destroyed the rest."
Note here how Saul talks about what the soldiers did. The soldiers spared the best...a sudden turn from "I carried out the LORD's instructions." In a way, I think he knew he was in for a whipping.
Samuel can't take it, he reminds Saul how God wanted everyone wiped out.
Saul says he did wipe everything out, but he took some good stuff to sacrifice.
It is then that Samuel tells Saul that obedience is more important than sacrifice. To heed is better than the fat of rams. And this makes sense. When God wants something done, don't do what you think God would want you to do, do what God told you to do.
Saul has rejected the word of the LORD, the LORD rejects Saul as king.
This finally cracks the rocks around Saul's brain, and he realizes the gravity of the situation, and there's no verbal gymnastics that can make him come out on top. As Samuel turns to leave, he desperately grabs Samuel's robe, and it tears, symbolizing that God has torn the kingdom from Saul's hand.
Saul goes to war against the Amalekites as God's hand of vengeance against them for obstructing Israel's path to freedom out of Egypt. This war was commanded by God, as was the degree of violence, as in wiping out every human being, and all of the livestock. They were to be completely wiped off the face of the earth.
After booting the Kenite neighbors from the vicinity, they crushed the Amalekites. Almost completely. Which was not what God commanded. God wanted total annihilation. Saul spared the king, and some plunder.
This greatly displeased God, and He told Samuel that Saul had turned away from Him. Samuel spent the night crying out to God. Can you imagine the agony Samuel must have felt to spend all night groaning and crying out? That is some kind of pain. Why did he feel like this? Saul was anointed by Samuel, as a replacement for God. Now this king turned away from God, disobeying God. Samuel, who would have been Israel's leader and judge, apparently still had his faith, and still had a dynamic relationship with God.
I find the meeting between Samuel and Saul somewhat comical. As Samuel approaches the king's camp, Saul comes out saying, "The LORD bless you! I have carried out the LORD's instructions."
Samuel: "What then is this bleating of sheep in my ears? What is this lowing of cattle that I hear?"
Now, I think Samuel may be referring to the actual sheep and cattle, but I think under the surface, he is referring the nonsense coming out of Saul's mouth. Which is funny. Come on.
Saul: "The soldiers brought them from the Amalekites; they spared the best of the sheep and cattle to sacrifice to the LORD your God, but we totally destroyed the rest."
Note here how Saul talks about what the soldiers did. The soldiers spared the best...a sudden turn from "I carried out the LORD's instructions." In a way, I think he knew he was in for a whipping.
Samuel can't take it, he reminds Saul how God wanted everyone wiped out.
Saul says he did wipe everything out, but he took some good stuff to sacrifice.
It is then that Samuel tells Saul that obedience is more important than sacrifice. To heed is better than the fat of rams. And this makes sense. When God wants something done, don't do what you think God would want you to do, do what God told you to do.
Saul has rejected the word of the LORD, the LORD rejects Saul as king.
This finally cracks the rocks around Saul's brain, and he realizes the gravity of the situation, and there's no verbal gymnastics that can make him come out on top. As Samuel turns to leave, he desperately grabs Samuel's robe, and it tears, symbolizing that God has torn the kingdom from Saul's hand.
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
1 Sa. 14: Jonathan
1 Samuel 14:45 "
But the men said to Saul, "Should Jonathan die—he who has brought about this great deliverance in Israel? Never! As surely as the LORD lives, not a hair of his head will fall to the ground, for he did this today with God's help." So the men rescued Jonathan, and he was not put to death."
In chapter 14, Jonathan (along with his armor bearer) takes a little initiative and attacks a Philistine outpost. He consults God, rather briefly, in a manner similar to drawing lots. If the Philistines spot them and tell them to wait there, God is not behind him. If they tell them to come up, God will have delivered the Philistines into Jonathan's hands. This takes some guts, because there was going to be a fight either way, and it was one extreme or another. Jonathan would have had victory or defeat. God helps Jonathan kill about 20 dudes in this section. That's kind of an exciting thing. God didn't have to do this, but God was with Jonathan. God didn't command this attack, but God still gave victory. God didn't appear to require a sacrifice and lots of fasting...merely to be acknowledged it would seem. And from what little has been revealed about Saul this far, this is significant, because Saul was God's stand in, and wasn't exactly the most God-fearing type.
I wonder if this contributed or touched off a panic sent by God through the Philistine camp, because the door was thrown wide open at this point for Israel to come storming in and take a great military victory.
Then we have another rash vow...Think Jephthah...Saul curses anyone who eats food before he avenges himself on his enemies. That is pretty selfish. Its personal. And it made the soldiers faint. And of course there were going to be those who didn't know about it. Like those who sneaked away on their own without the others knowing about it...Jonathan. Jonathan eats some honey...significant. Honey is mentioned a lot in some big time stories...Samson, and the idea that it shouldn't be sacrificed. Anyway, the word says it brightened Jonathan's eyes...gave him a boost. Like ancient Red Bull. When told of Saul's curse, he knew that was moronic, saying Saul has made trouble for the country.
Not because it was making men faint, but also desperate for food. After taking care of the Philistines, the Israelite soldiers just rip into their plunder and butcher it on the ground and just start chowing down. This was a sin, because God had forbidden the eating of meat with blood still in it.
Saul then puts his son Jonathan on the chopping block before his men to die. Ostensibly, it is because Jonathan ate the honey. But I wonder if Jonathan showed his dad up with his commitment to his faith, and trusting God. Clearly the men showed great respect for Jonathan, moreso than Saul, because they opted to let Jonathan live, where Saul put him up to die. Another case here where a father puts his son up to die...Abraham and Isaac...and there is another one, but it currently escapes me.
Saul ended up being a great warrior, but I just wonder who this "man after God's own heart" is going to be. Saul is a lame duck.
But the men said to Saul, "Should Jonathan die—he who has brought about this great deliverance in Israel? Never! As surely as the LORD lives, not a hair of his head will fall to the ground, for he did this today with God's help." So the men rescued Jonathan, and he was not put to death."In chapter 14, Jonathan (along with his armor bearer) takes a little initiative and attacks a Philistine outpost. He consults God, rather briefly, in a manner similar to drawing lots. If the Philistines spot them and tell them to wait there, God is not behind him. If they tell them to come up, God will have delivered the Philistines into Jonathan's hands. This takes some guts, because there was going to be a fight either way, and it was one extreme or another. Jonathan would have had victory or defeat. God helps Jonathan kill about 20 dudes in this section. That's kind of an exciting thing. God didn't have to do this, but God was with Jonathan. God didn't command this attack, but God still gave victory. God didn't appear to require a sacrifice and lots of fasting...merely to be acknowledged it would seem. And from what little has been revealed about Saul this far, this is significant, because Saul was God's stand in, and wasn't exactly the most God-fearing type.
I wonder if this contributed or touched off a panic sent by God through the Philistine camp, because the door was thrown wide open at this point for Israel to come storming in and take a great military victory.
Then we have another rash vow...Think Jephthah...Saul curses anyone who eats food before he avenges himself on his enemies. That is pretty selfish. Its personal. And it made the soldiers faint. And of course there were going to be those who didn't know about it. Like those who sneaked away on their own without the others knowing about it...Jonathan. Jonathan eats some honey...significant. Honey is mentioned a lot in some big time stories...Samson, and the idea that it shouldn't be sacrificed. Anyway, the word says it brightened Jonathan's eyes...gave him a boost. Like ancient Red Bull. When told of Saul's curse, he knew that was moronic, saying Saul has made trouble for the country.
Not because it was making men faint, but also desperate for food. After taking care of the Philistines, the Israelite soldiers just rip into their plunder and butcher it on the ground and just start chowing down. This was a sin, because God had forbidden the eating of meat with blood still in it.
Saul then puts his son Jonathan on the chopping block before his men to die. Ostensibly, it is because Jonathan ate the honey. But I wonder if Jonathan showed his dad up with his commitment to his faith, and trusting God. Clearly the men showed great respect for Jonathan, moreso than Saul, because they opted to let Jonathan live, where Saul put him up to die. Another case here where a father puts his son up to die...Abraham and Isaac...and there is another one, but it currently escapes me.
Saul ended up being a great warrior, but I just wonder who this "man after God's own heart" is going to be. Saul is a lame duck.
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
1 Sa. 13: Sault in the Wound
1 Samuel 13:20 "So all Israel went down to the Philistines to have their plowshares, mattocks, axes and sickles sharpened."
This chapter is about rushing. Hurrying stuff. No sabbath or rest to be found. Saul tries to force the issue with the Philistines. Up to this point, I believe God has ordered attacks. When God has ordered attacks, attacks have been successful, with few exceptions. When God does not order attacks (as Joshua found out), attacks are unsuccessful. Same thing here. Saul goes ape-poopy on the Philistines, but they knock him around. It served only to make the Philistines mad. The Philistines assembled an huuuuge army to fight. The Israelites ran. And I don't wonder why. I do wonder why Saul took so long to realize that he needed to ask God. So, he rushes the sacrifice, not waiting for the priest. And then, it was a band-aid to slap on the complete debacle that was the Israelite military situation, not an act of submission to God.
This lack of rest...this hurry, costs Saul a lengthy reign on the throne, and God is reported to have chosen another man to take Saul's place on the throne, a "man after (God's) own heart." This leader was appointed by God as leader. So I wonder if even though Saul held the title, It was this other man who was already the leader of Israel.
Meanwhile, the Philistines had apparently eradicated all the Israelite blacksmiths, so the Israelites, in what I imagine could only be crushing humiliation, had to go to Philistine blacksmith to have their farm implements sharpened. Would they sharpen swords? Hardly! On the day of the battle, Israel had no swords or spears. Only Saul and his son Jonathan had actual weapons of war. Of course. I don't imagine this will end well. The army is in complete disarray and fear, and they have no weapons. They need God.
This chapter is about rushing. Hurrying stuff. No sabbath or rest to be found. Saul tries to force the issue with the Philistines. Up to this point, I believe God has ordered attacks. When God has ordered attacks, attacks have been successful, with few exceptions. When God does not order attacks (as Joshua found out), attacks are unsuccessful. Same thing here. Saul goes ape-poopy on the Philistines, but they knock him around. It served only to make the Philistines mad. The Philistines assembled an huuuuge army to fight. The Israelites ran. And I don't wonder why. I do wonder why Saul took so long to realize that he needed to ask God. So, he rushes the sacrifice, not waiting for the priest. And then, it was a band-aid to slap on the complete debacle that was the Israelite military situation, not an act of submission to God.
This lack of rest...this hurry, costs Saul a lengthy reign on the throne, and God is reported to have chosen another man to take Saul's place on the throne, a "man after (God's) own heart." This leader was appointed by God as leader. So I wonder if even though Saul held the title, It was this other man who was already the leader of Israel.
Meanwhile, the Philistines had apparently eradicated all the Israelite blacksmiths, so the Israelites, in what I imagine could only be crushing humiliation, had to go to Philistine blacksmith to have their farm implements sharpened. Would they sharpen swords? Hardly! On the day of the battle, Israel had no swords or spears. Only Saul and his son Jonathan had actual weapons of war. Of course. I don't imagine this will end well. The army is in complete disarray and fear, and they have no weapons. They need God.
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